Self-employment and marriage: Costs and benefits

Abstract

This article highlights the effect of self-employment in a marriage by examining both the costs and possible benefits that are brought to bear when the breadwinner is in self-employment. Specific aspects identified as having an impact on the marital relationship were: work-family conflicts; role-division; stress; motivation for the start up of the business; the structure of the business; financial management; and personality characteristics. Via the interview schedule, it was possible to glean in-depth information from both spouses in the marriage on the advantages and disadvantages of being self-employed. Finally, recommendations are made both for therapeutic and preventive interventions with the couple as well as for interdisciplinary communication.